Children's Home run by Castle Homes Care Limited in Shropshire

Unique reference number SC020630 Inspection date 26/01/2012 Inspector Jo Stephenson Type of inspection Interim Provision subtype Children's home

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Date of last inspection 13/09/2011 Website: www.ofsted.gov.uk

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About this inspection

The purpose of this inspection is to assure children and young people, parents, the public, local authorities and government of the quality and standard of the service provided. The inspection was carried out under the Care Standards Act 2000 to assess the effectiveness of the service and to consider how well it complies with the relevant regulations and meets the national minimum standards.

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About this inspection

The report details the progress made by the provider since the last full inspection, identifies any further strengths, any areas for improvement and makes judgements as outlined in the Inspection of children’s homes – framework for inspection (March 2011).

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The inspection judgements and what they mean

Good progress The children’s home has demonstrated continued improvement in quality of care and outcomes for children and young people and where appropriate has addressed all requirements and the large majority of recommendations that were raised at the previous inspection. Satisfactory progress The children’s home has maintained quality of care and outcomes for children and young people and where appropriate has addressed all requirements and the majority of recommendations that were raised at the previous inspection. Inadequate progress The children’s home has failed to address one or more requirements and/or has not met the majority of recommendations and/or the quality of care and outcomes for children and young people have declined since the last full inspection.

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Brief description of the service

The home is a two-bedded children's home providing services for young people in crisis between 10 and 18 years of age. It is run by a private company and education is provided on-site for young people of school age by a qualified tutor.

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Progress

Since their previous inspection the service is judged to be making good progress.

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Progress

This interim inspection has focused on the progress made by the home since the last inspection in September 2011. The overall judgement was outstanding, and no requirements or recommendations were stipulated. The service has made good progress at this interim inspection.

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Progress

Outcomes for young people have improved because of the continued improvement in the quality of care at the home. For example, educational achievements are celebrated in the home and across the organisation; subsequently young people feel motivated and supported.

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Progress

Young people enjoy positive relationships with staff and each other and, as a result, they say they feel safe. Staff are able to identify behaviour triggers for young people and these are addressed effectively in key work sessions. Consequently, incidents of concern have reduced. Risk assessments and placement plans are regularly reviewed, and demonstrate consultation with young people and the placing authorities. This means that young people profit from a comprehensive and inclusive approach to their care.

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Progress

Young people say they feel their views and wishes are considered and that they understand how to make a complaint. Staff are proactive in identifying positive behaviours and share these with young people. As a result, young people experience improved self-confidence and self-worth.

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Progress

Equality and diversity is successfully promoted and respected in all aspects of care planning and the running of the home. Subsequently, young people are assisted to understand their culture and background and their diversity is celebrated. Young people are supported with their emotional and physical health needs. The home accesses specialist services that reflect the individual needs of young people and promotes their emotional and social development. Education is a priority for the home and, as a result, young people enjoy an extended curriculum that reflects their individual achievements and future ambitions.

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Progress

Staff and managers are able to recognise the strengths and limitations of the home and the impact of these on the quality of care and outcomes for young people. For example, the location of the home restricts independent travel for young people and this is considered in timescales and life skills plans for transition to adulthood.

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Progress

Staff receive training that enhances their skills and development. They are supported by robust supervision and monitoring systems. As a result, staff are confident and enthusiastic in their role and young people benefit from a consistent approach to their care. Consequently, young people live in an effectively and efficiently managed home. The Statement of Purpose has been reviewed and updated and reflects the aims and objectives of the home. The development plan identifies the targets of the service across a number of key areas.

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